Haiku Stairs: Hawaii's Iconic Attraction Facing Demolition Due to Unruly Tourist Conduct
Discover the heartbreaking decision to dismantle the iconic Haiku Stairs in Hawaii, a beloved tourist spot marred by disrespectful visitor behavior. Explore the controversy surrounding the closure of this picturesque staircase and its impact on the local community.
A beautiful staircase that leads to a popular Hawaiian beauty spot is currently being dismantled, as tourists have been accessing the area despite it being off-limits.
The Haiku Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, located in Oahu, will be taken down by the end of April, as announced by the Honolulu city government in a press release.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi reassured, "I want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly."
The problems with the stairs, constructed by the US Navy during World War II and off-limits to the public since 1987, have become more evident in the era of social media.
The Stairway to Heaven, Haiku Stairs, Oahu, Hawaii, The USA
The Stairway to Heaven, Haiku Stairs, Oahu, Hawaii, The USA
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Hawaii’s famous Haiku Stairs will likely be removed
The Haiku Stairs are comprised of 3,922 steps twisting through a 2,800 foot mountain trail in Kaneohe in eastern Oahu.
Despite the risky terrain, many adventurous individuals like YouTubers, TikTokers, and thrill-seekers, as well as other tourists, kept finding ways to access the stairs.
Honolulu City Council member Esther Kiaʻāina expressed concern about the continuous illegal trespassing on the Haiku Stairs. She mentioned that it poses a significant liability and expense for the city, and also affects the quality of life for residents living nearby.
The council has unanimously decided to remove the stairs in 2021. According to the mayor’s office, the project is expected to take at least six months and cost $2.5 million.
Mayor Blangiardi explained that the decision to remove the stairs was based on their respect for the residents living near the entrance, their respect for the land and sea (ʻāina), and their respect for the cultural history of the Haʻikū community, both past and future.
The decision to remove the stairs was influenced by a variety of factors. This decision was made to prioritize public safety, prevent illegal trespassing, address disturbances experienced by nearby neighbors, reduce liability for the city, preserve the natural beauty of the area, and enhance the quality of life for residents in the neighborhood.
